Laredo Lawyer Handling Criminal Record Sealing & Expunction
Clearing Criminal Records in Texas: Sealing and Expunction
Completing probation and meeting the requirements of a criminal conviction should allow someone to move forward with their life. However, a prior criminal record can continue to create obstacles, such as:
- Difficulty passing background checks
- Disqualification from employment opportunities
- Challenges in securing housing
- Social and professional stigma
Fortunately, Texas law provides pathways to clear or seal past criminal records, giving individuals a fresh start. Options include obtaining an Order of Non-Disclosure (sealing a record) or pursuing an expunction (also known as expungement) to completely erase certain offenses from one's history. Consulting with an experienced attorney can help determine eligibility and ensure the process is handled properly. Joey Tellez, a dedicated Laredo lawyer, is experienced in clearing criminal records and is ready to assist you. Contact our office at 956-717-8200 to schedule a consultation.
Sealing Criminal Records in Texas: Orders of Non-Disclosure
A criminal record can be easily discovered by potential employers, landlords, or others conducting background checks. However, obtaining an Order of Non-Disclosure allows individuals to legally claim that they have never been arrested or convicted of an offense. Additionally, the sealed record will not appear during most background checks.
To be eligible for an Order of Non-Disclosure in Texas, certain conditions must be met:
- Eligible Offense: The original charge must be a misdemeanor or felony eligible for the non-disclosure process.
- Plea: The defendant must have pled guilty or nolo contendere (no contest) to the charge.
- Deferred Adjudication: The court must have deferred a finding of guilt and placed the defendant under community supervision (probation).
- Completion of Supervision: The defendant must have successfully completed supervision, and the charges must have been dismissed.
- No Disqualifying History: The individual must not have a disqualifying criminal history.
The timing for eligibility varies based on the nature of the offense. In some cases, records can be sealed immediately after the successful completion of probation, while other cases require a mandatory waiting period. Filing for an Order of Non-Disclosure must be done precisely, following the correct procedures to avoid rejection by the court. Retaining a knowledgeable attorney can ensure that your Petition is correctly filed.
Joey Tellez is a Laredo attorney who assists Texas residents in sealing their criminal records. During an initial consultation, Joey will evaluate your case to determine if you qualify for the process. If eligible, he will gather the necessary documents, submit your Petition, and represent you in court if a hearing is required. Once the Order of Non-Disclosure is granted, Joey will assist in circulating it to relevant state agencies. We believe everyone deserves a second chance and are here to help you move forward. Contact us at 956-717-8200 for assistance.
Expunction of Criminal Records in Texas
In some cases, individuals may be eligible for an expunction, a process that goes beyond non-disclosure. While an Order of Non-Disclosure allows you to deny that an offense occurred, expunction completely erases the arrest and conviction from your record, as if it never happened. Eligibility for expunction in Texas includes:
- Arrest without Charges: You were arrested, but no charges were filed.
- Acquittal: You were found not guilty in a court of law.
- Certain Convictions: Some offenses may be eligible for expunction under specific conditions.
If you qualify for expunction, pursuing this process can significantly improve your future prospects by eliminating the record of your arrest or conviction. Joey Tellez, a Laredo-based lawyer, has extensive experience in helping individuals expunge their Texas criminal records. He can guide you through the process and work to ensure that your record is permanently removed.
Laredo Attorney Providing Quality Legal Services for Clearing Criminal Records
Joey Tellez understands the challenges that come with a criminal record and is dedicated to helping clients reclaim their future. He provides:
- Clear Communication: Prompt and thorough communication with clients, keeping them informed throughout the process.
- Detailed Guidance: Step-by-step assistance in filing for an Order of Non-Disclosure or an expunction.
- Professional Representation: Joey will handle all interactions with the courts and relevant agencies to ensure the process is completed smoothly.
Our Laredo office serves clients throughout South Texas, providing compassionate and professional legal representation. Whether you seek to seal your record or erase it entirely, we are here to help. Contact our office at 956-717-8200 to schedule an initial consultation and take the first step toward a clean slate.
Read our blog article on the topic here to learn more.